In a recent government meeting in Waynesville, officials discussed the town's response to severe flooding that occurred over the weekend, highlighting the collaborative efforts of various departments in rescue and recovery operations. Fire Chief Joy Webb reported that no firefighters or civilians lost their lives during the rescues, despite the tragic losses in neighboring counties. The fire department successfully evacuated over 100 individuals from homes and vehicles, utilizing newly acquired equipment, including a boat that proved essential during the crisis.

The meeting underscored the preparedness of the town's emergency services, which had anticipated the flooding due to heavy rainfall leading up to the event. Chief Webb noted that training exercises had been conducted in advance, enabling responders to act swiftly when the situation escalated early Friday morning. The fire department, alongside the police and public works, worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of residents, conducting door-to-door checks and coordinating with outside agencies for additional support.

Police Chief David Dowd praised the teamwork displayed by all town employees, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the flooding and the effective response that followed. He acknowledged the contributions of various departments, including planning and zoning, which played a crucial role in the evacuation efforts.

As the town transitions into the recovery phase, officials reminded residents of local ordinances regarding burning debris, urging them to refrain from burning building materials to avoid air quality violations. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue supporting recovery efforts and ensuring the safety of the community as they navigate the aftermath of this significant weather event.